http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248 en LL.M. in Finance - Institute For Law and Finance at Goethe University - Germany - LLM GUIDE Discussion Board Tue, 04 Dec 2007 22:21:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37248 Hello, Is there anybody else applying for the LLM in Finance at the ILF to 2008/2009? Is there anybody that had attended this LL.M in the past to provide me a feedback? I heard a lot of great things about them in special regarding a high rate of scholarships granted and a high rate of graduates getting jobs in the prestigious market of Frankfurt after the program. Also, there are one of the few programs that accept business guys and lawyers. Thus, discussions in class must be even better and considerable abrangent. If somebody could share experiences and wishes it would be great!! Cheers... Wed, 05 Dec 2007 20:45:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37298 Hey Finance Guy, If you are interested to know a bit more about the ILF, I would be very keen to help. What exactly would you like to know? ML Thu, 06 Dec 2007 08:36:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37311 I wonder if i can get L.L.M schoolarship Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:44:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37334 Hello Everybody It is really a nice idea to join Institute for law and finance. Specially since I am a student and know a lot about the program, I strongly recommend to everybody who is interested having LLM. I would prefer not to talk much about it since the program by itself is self explanatory. May be you can get similar program elsewhere in the world. But I can 100% guarantee you there is no program that exactly resembles ILF.Some of the reasons behind this fact is -almost 95% of lecturers are practitioners -generous scholarship award -internships in different big law firms, banks, accounting firms which helps to establish good career contact -accepts both Law and Economics/Business students irrespective of their working experience and any other background -small student body... These are not the only benefits that you might get here. Still there are unmentioned hidden benefits of ILF. Regards, Fasil Mekonnen Alemu (Nationality Ethiopian) Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:16:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37340 Hello Everybody! Firstly, I would like to cheer the initiative of Mr. Finance Guy for asking about the ILF. Without a doubt, I can say that the best way to evaluate a place and to know about its LL.M Program is asking to those who already took or are attending it. Since nobody could properly help me when I was selecting my LL.M and due to the fact that I do think I did a great job selecting the ILF, in spite of having more known British universities to go (where fellows here say the programs are not that intense) I am very keen to share my experiences with you. The Institute for Law and Finance is part of the Johann Wolfgang Goethe – University of Frankfurt, the really best university for Finance in Germany (See DAAD Ranking) and one of the most prestigious for Law as well. Nonetheless, even though it is part of the university, the Institute has its own facilities just for the students of the LL.M, an exclusive library, computer room and everything else. The vibe in the Institute is great, the Staff is always available and I just can say good things about here. Also, the university provide us a lot of help, as a fair Menza (food court) with good subsidized food, the Goethe Card which allows you to use all public transports in the state of Hessen, day-night weekdays or weekends, for Free. But the main issue is the quality of the program which (I bet!) you may find something as good, yet probably not better. It is intense as an LL.M has to be (IT IS REALLY A LOT TO DO AND READ), mainly practical, not strictly academic with just boring questions. Another factor to consider is the size and peculiarity of the selected group: formed strictly with 40 Graduates (this year from 28 different countries) with different backgrounds (Business and Law). As I have already mentioned, the professors are all practitioners from different countries (until now I got a British, a Swedish, an Italian, some Germans, a Portuguese and an American as far as I can properly remember) and from the main organizations (ECB, German Central Bank) and Law Offices (Clifford Chance, Freshfields, Price, etc...). This fact provides us an International experience and an opportunity to analyze important topics in different perspectives, enhancing our knowledge. In addition, trying to not be that extensive, the ILF has a great Scholarship Program (They really can help you if you prove that you are good and need help to afford your tuition fees!!!!!). I got a scholarship by myself and am really grateful for them. Another important factor to be considered is the relation that the institute has with major firms. They do arrange an internship for you in one of its sponsors and attending it is a requirement for a graduation (you may find it by yourself if you prefer to do so). Definitely, it helps you to get a job and to get experience. As a matter of fact, I got 5 months internship in Linklaters and am proud for that. Finally, the ILF has good contacts with other universities. For Example, the two best students for the first semester get a chance to go Columbia University in the USA to keep studying for a semester after the LL.M. completion. Also, Columbia sends their graduate students to the ILF every year. In any case, if you still have questions to address, feel free to write it down and I will be happy to help if I can. Please, just to not send personal messages, because I always forget to answer. Cheers, Rafael Thu, 06 Dec 2007 17:21:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37347 Fasil and Rafael, Many Thaks!!! I really heard a lot about the ILF... a friend of mine attended it couple years ago. I am still thinking, but if these are the conditions, I will be willing to apply as soon as I get my papers done! How about admissions? Cheers Fri, 07 Dec 2007 13:18:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37364 Hey Mate! Just go to the website www.ilf-frankfurt.de and see the proceedings there. It is not that complicated... But, as far as I know after the 40th placement, no one more.. so if you want to apply, I would suggets you to do so as soon as you can!! See ya Sun, 09 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37420 Dear All, I am very much interested to participate in ILF in 2008. I've already sent my application. Is it too late ? Could anybody tell me how long ILF takes to take a decision after receiving the application? I've a a particular question for Rafael Lima. I am a lawyer from Bangladesh, got second position in my class among 100 students, have worked in a corporate law firm here for four years mainly on syndication and structured finance, presently I am working in a multinational in Bangladesh. My English is fairly good (IELTS 7.5) and I have good recommendation letter. I would ask your opinion abt my chances to get admitted to ILF? Where r u from? Where did you do ur first degree? Thanks all. Ashraf Sun, 09 Dec 2007 13:38:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37432 Hey Ashraf, Regarding admissions, I just cannot talk too much... as you know I am just a current student. As far as I remember, I got the admission letter 3 or 4 weeks after my application. They are quite fast here... Just do not worry about when you applied, I do believe that since your CV and application documents are good, you have a chance to be accepted. I applied a bit later than you and I am here today. By the way, there is a girl from Bangladesh in my class. She is great... I had a background very simliar to yours: - An IELTS of 7,5 (I think, it is their ball park); - Two nice Recommendation Letters; - A legal background; - Had worked with corporate law in a Bank in Brazil. I wish all luck for you and hope to see you here next year, since I will stay a bit longer practising.. See ya Sun, 09 Dec 2007 18:56:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37439 Mates, I totally support the ILF... They are great!!!!! If I can give you an advice is: Do apply!!! Mon, 10 Dec 2007 04:27:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37457 Thanks Lima for your reply. BTW, could you tell me the name of Bangladeshi girl and which university she is from? If she's studied in Bangladesh, then we might have common friends at least, it is a small world.... Thanks others also who have posted their reply here. Ashraf Mon, 10 Dec 2007 13:06:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37471 I would ask a thing to who has just attended the LLM. The tuition fee is 15.000 Euro and it doesn’t cover the life expenses. How could I obtain a scholarship and what does this scholarsip cover? Could someone that have just applied for this indicate me how many possibilities I should have to obtain a scholarship and the terms for that? Thanks a lot ( I ve just red the indications shown in the LLM site but I should have more informations about the scholarship because only through this way I could apply for the LLM) Thanks everybody :) Mon, 10 Dec 2007 17:22:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37476 Guys, I am working in public finace sector (Tax, corporate and Investment) I have good first hand knowledge and practise in finance issues (Syndication, taxation, securitaisation as well as capital markets) am desperately looking for LLM scholarship 2008 or 2009 in either of the field, any sugestions? Am now on the process to trying my lucky at ILF, I have heard enough of its superiority....! (indeed, is TOEFL or IELTS their major application criteria?) Are there other alternatives, please please help...! Mon, 10 Dec 2007 17:38:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37477 Hey, I again can just help with my experience, once I really do not know how it works internally. But, when I applied to a scholarship I filled the Application Form as required, I wrote a letter explaining my situation, how much I wish to attend the program and showing them that even though I could fulfill all their admission requirements at that time, I would not be able to attend the LL.M. without a financial support. Unfortunately, I am afraid to say that they will require some proof of your financial situation. You cannot just ask for help, without needing it. So, you will probably have to disclosure some private information. Nonetheless, if you really need a help, they will certainly provide you something. Just keep in mind: Provided that you fulfill their quality standards for admission (anyway, it is better to try than to quit beforehand). I can say that they were really fair with me! I got the scholarship in the extent I needed. It covers only the Tuition Fees. So, if it cost 15.000 and you got a 5.000 (for example), you will have to pay the remaining 10.000 as fees for tuition. If you got a 10.000, then you will pay 5.000, and so on. In reality, there is no school that I know which cover your living costs, so it is a normal procedure. You may meet you shortage of resources getting a shared place to live here, a student wg, eating at the university. It is up to you!! Regarding scholarships, I also know that the Institute has nice relations with some foundations that provide scholarships, but I don't know much about them. In case you have doubts, I would suggest you to write to the admission office of the ILF and inquire them. They will certainly provide all you need to know! That’s it guys, hope I’ve helped a bit! Cheers, Rafael Mon, 10 Dec 2007 18:21:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37480 Rafael, Thank you very lot for sharing your first hand experience with ILF. I am elated. For sure, I am ILF admirer, I have always dreamt of having my LLM at ILF, i feel like this course is very ideal to what i am doing daily....! I now need their wider exposure...! let me throw my dice this week....! However, do u happen to know any other alternative to ILF, ofcaurse with some scholarship?! Erik Mon, 10 Dec 2007 22:07:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37484 Mate, It is quite difficult to answer your last questions... I mean, LL.M in Finance is quite hard to find. There are just a few that you can really takes in consideration, specially in Europe. Here, I would say it is ILF and nobody else, if you want to have a goal in syndicatted loan, project finance, comparative company law, financial regulation, looking not only the law, but the business itself too... Well, I think Kings College have sth, LSE certainly have too!!! Apart from then... maybe something in Holland... nut i would never go that far. Financial centres are London and Frankfurt in Europe and NYC in America. BTW, in US, I would say Columbia, Stanford, NYU (??)... maily in New York city! But, I know that they offer just a few scholarships and do not know how to get them, to be honest... Just try!!! Tue, 11 Dec 2007 11:28:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37500 What´s up guys!! I am quite happy that we have a plenty of posts now!!! As I ve learned in the School, in this world information is everything! Therefore (You lawyers love therefores, thuses, e.g., and etc...) I would like to know how international is the group of students and if the ILF does have business students studying a bit of law, or just lawyers learning a bit of the business... See ya Wed, 12 Dec 2007 11:00:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37515 Hello Finance Guy I am a graduate of Accounting in Ethiopia. But thanks to ILF, I increased my stock of knowledge in area of law as well. As for the other question, the program is international in every respect: the curriculum, our faculty and students. For instance this year we all come from about 28 countries which sound impressive. We also study international and European laws in different areas and our professors are also from different countries. Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:17:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37530 Hey, Someone asked about the Bangladesh girl at the ILF. Well, her name is Arzoo and she is a former student of the Business School at the North South University, Hope I have helped! Cheers Thu, 13 Dec 2007 04:16:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37538 Thanks Rafael. I asked the name of Bangladeshi giri studying at ILF. Well, I thought she is from law background and thats why I asked for it to see whether I know her. Though I know some ppl from NSU business school, the name does not ring any bell yet. If she agrees, you may give her email ID. Thanks again. Ashraf Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:09:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37545 Hi. I have been following this discussion board for sometime now and this program seems to be the one I have been looking for. I am hoping I could get some clarifications regarding the following: 1. Are there still slots available for 2008-2009? 2. Assuming that one gets accepted to the program for a given year, does the ILF allow deferment to the following year? If not, would one be disadvantaged if he applies anew in the following year? 3. Is the ILF particular about the TOEFL? It seems that it is not needed if one has obtained a degree from a university wherein English is used as a medium of instruction. I obtained my B.A., LLB, and MBA degrees from Asian universities which use English but for ease in the application processing, would it be better I just go through the TOEFL? I am still in the process of completing the requirements. Hopefully, I will be able to file my application by January 2008. Thanks, Yumi Hello, Is there anybody else applying for the LLM in Finance at the ILF to 2008/2009? Is there anybody that had attended this LL.M in the past to provide me a feedback? I heard a lot of great things about them in special regarding a high rate of scholarships granted and a high rate of graduates getting jobs in the prestigious market of Frankfurt after the program. Also, there are one of the few programs that accept business guys and lawyers. Thus, discussions in class must be even better and considerable abrangent. If somebody could share experiences and wishes it would be great!! Cheers... Thu, 13 Dec 2007 23:12:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37556 Hi Yumi, Well, I will try to help you, but take into consideration that I am a former student and I really dunno how things are conducted inside the ILF Admission Board: 1. Since applications are still open, you must suppose there are still available places. I think they send all confirmations, or at least keep some to be sent, in january or february 2008. That is, you may still apply and get someone's place, in case they are in doubt about him/her. (It is cruel, but is how it is...) 2. I don't think so! If you wanna 2009/2010 you will probably have to apply again. In my oppinion, it should be different. You know, cheat happens in this world!!! But I am quite sure they do not deffer any admission. In any case, you may apply again and I bet you will be accepted if your papers are good enough in comparison with the pool of aplicants of that year. No bad fellings at all... 3. Send an e-mail to them and they will certainly inform exactly how it works. I applied using Toefl and Ielts... 3.1.Z - If you can get a good mark on TOEFL, do it!! It is easy and allow you to apply for others Universities (If it is the case) and to show english proficiency in Interviews (Mandatory to pass in the ILF). Just have in mind that Europeans Unis do prefer IELTS. Bests, ML Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:52:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37564 Hi Everybody, In cases like this one, I would suggest you to write an e-mail to the admission office of the ILF. Unfortunately, I cannot help in these specific questions. Bye Rafael Fri, 14 Dec 2007 23:54:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37569 Can anyone help me on the academic barriers for acceptance? Some years ago I received a high 2:2 in my LLB in Australia and was ranked around the 50% mark in my class. Is there any point in me applying for this program? Many thanks, Gibbo Sat, 15 Dec 2007 12:58:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37579 Hey Gibbo, I read the Admission Requirements on the ILF Web Site (www.ilf-frankfurt.de), and could not find a precise information regarding final grades. I mean, whether you got a first, upper second or lower second as far as I can understand will not be a barrier for your admission. But Ranking is important and they will certainly require it. In any case, I would say... APPLY!!! The LL.M. is really great... Reasons for that: 1) There is no application fee; 2) Your language is English, thus no Proficiency Exam for you; 3) No cost with translation of documents (they are in english already). 4) You just need to collect everything and send a by mail. As a suggestion, I would say to you: 1) write a nice Statement of Purpose saying that you are really interested and you will be able to gain knowledge and share experiences... you know!! 2) get 2 or 3 nice Recommendation Letters... these are the most important documents... 3) Put stress on your work experience if you have some... Just Remember... It is better to have an application denied than not had even tried mate!! Ciao Sun, 16 Dec 2007 14:58:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37615 Hi everybody, I studied at the ILF 2006-2007 and am therefore entitled to recommend this program. Btw, I think I know Mr Lawyer (I think we've been neighbours in September 2007...) and would like to say hello to Fasil (try and guess who I am...not too difficult...). As far as I know no statement of purpose is required (unless they changed sth): But preparing one and sending it along with the application package won't harm you. As to ranking, I confirm it's important but not necessary to have a good ranking especially if you can demonstrate work experience in the field. For the Australian guy (sorry I can't read yr name right now): I bet the ILF would be very interested in receiving yr application. They usually are eager to differentiate (financial technique) and gain to the student body new nationalities. Thus go ahead! Sun, 16 Dec 2007 19:41:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37622 What's Up!!! I would like to be in contact with the prospective students of the ILF 2008/2009... So, if you applied already or will apply, could you write your name and nacionality below?!?! Let's make it even nicer... Cheers, My Status: - Collecting Documents and Translating them to apply; Nationality: Argentinian; Mon, 17 Dec 2007 04:32:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37630 Hi, I am Ashraf from Bangladesh. Application status: applied already, finger crossed. Good luck to all. Mon, 17 Dec 2007 13:12:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37633 ML / Rafael, Thank you for the tips. Well, I'd better hurry completing these requirements.... Great seeing all these Q&As posted on this board; practically all of my questions now have found light ;) Hoping I can make it in 2008-2009. Thanks again. Yumi Mon, 17 Dec 2007 14:36:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37641 Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:16:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37650 Mr. Lawyer, Thank you for the reply. Actually, you are completely right, I have nothing to lose by putting in an application. Best of luck to those who have applied or are about to. I hope to see you there! Gibbo Mon, 17 Dec 2007 23:48:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37655 Hey Guys, I wish you all the best in your application! Hope you all come and help the Institute to become more and more important and the LL.M even better. In case you still need any help, just post here and I will be proud to help (if possible). Cheers, Rafael Sat, 22 Dec 2007 22:03:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37850 Rafael and others, thanks a lot for helping, first of all. I am especially curious about job opportunities after the program without having a (first) German law degree. Even if you get an internship through the program, does that translate into a potential job offer after graduation? In other words, is the program primarily one that gives students some good experience but assumes that they will go back to their home countries after graduation, or are people actually getting jobs through this (in Frankfurt or elsewhere)? Again, thanks a lot. Sun, 23 Dec 2007 19:53:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#37874 Hi Everybody... I feel so happy because people is really asking and talking about the ILF. That's really great to see the LLM you've done one of the most popular in this world. Today the ILF is in the 13th place in the LLM Guide Ranking... IMPRESSIVE!!! Well, I will always be here to help those really interested in the Institute to get a place in one of the most nice LL.M over this planet, for sure. Regarding the "Jobbability" of the ILF I can say: 1) You will get an internship in Frankfurt, for sure; 2) You will work then in one of the leading banks or law firms for at least two months, enhancing your opportunities and network; 3) Provided that you work hard, speak good english and fit in their policys (imigration from auslanders, bla bla bla...), you can really get an placement in one of these places; I know some guys from Alumni and from my own group which got proposals to stay and jobs in this city! Others preferred to go back their own countries and make thei lives there. One thing is sure: without a german bar (first or second) and not being a solicitor in NY Bar, you will probably make less money in the very beginning, but you can after all compensate it. Another important fact: a job you can get everywhere, the job is another thing. I fell the LLM can prepare you to face huge challenges, meet expactations, but only you can make the difference to get the best placement. Remember that... Byeeeee Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:19:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#38640 Hi guys! I'm filipino and I've already been accepted to the Program. Hope to see everyone this October! Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:58:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#38787 Congrats Mate! Anybody else?? Cheers, R Mon, 04 Feb 2008 22:42:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#39659 Hello, I also want to apply LLM Finance. I have a question: They want high school transcripts. Is it mandatory? Because in my country, we have to pass an exam to go to university. The high school grades do not grant you the right to choose your school. Do I have to submit the high school transcripts in any situation? Thank you very much... btr Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:38:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#39685 btr am in your shoes, i have not been admited as of yet but i guess i may just share with you what i did. Well to my observed opinion, i would advise you send them all necesary but, certified documents which you think may be useful or may provide them with the understanding of your accademic profile. Other than that, i hardly have any other better advise. best Eric Tue, 05 Feb 2008 13:37:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#39687 Yeap Mate, They will require that!!! Ranking, Transcripts for both High School and University... It is impossible to skip this requirement... Tschuss Tue, 05 Feb 2008 15:53:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#39702 Thanks mates for your help. Mr Lawyer, there is nothing about ranking for the high school in the website, are you sure about it? As far as I know, they just need the ranking in the university... What do you think? Wed, 06 Feb 2008 17:04:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#39785 Hey, You misunderstood me, or I was not clear enough. Ranking (university), transcripts from both. Tschuss Thu, 07 Feb 2008 12:48:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#39823 Hello, Is there any Alumni around that could give us some advise about which subjects should we take for the first semester? It would be really nice if we could know "inside information" before choosing subjects. Thanks a lot, Bye Tue, 12 Feb 2008 16:17:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40151 Hey, I am doing it right now. What exactly do you wanna know?? Isn't it a bit early for course selection?!?!?! In any case, I may help you. And don't be that worried because you will be able to go for all classes for the 1 and 2 week. Then, you will have to decide it in reality. The first selection is not definitive... Cheers, Rafael Wed, 13 Feb 2008 08:39:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40187 Hi mates, There banking law LLM degrees in UK and people I talk say that going to UK is a better idea if the courses will be held in English and the tuition fee is 15.000 Euros. What do you think? According to you, why is LLM Finance better than those in UK? Thank you very much in advance... btr Wed, 13 Feb 2008 16:57:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40215 Well, I would say it is quite easy: 1) Here you can take more than 4 papers in the whole year. I had myself an experience in the UK and I can say that they have great name, good universities, but for an LL.M... They give you toooooo many brakes, tooooo much time to follow one or two papers only. I got bored... It is only one year. It must be as intense as possible. 2) Here they do speak English as well!!! Even though, it is in Germany. Professors come from UK, America, Germany, Portugal, Italy, to name few... It is really international. You have a broader view, learning how to manage not only the Company's Act 2002 and regulations from the UK (the view in the UK), but German, USA, UK, and General EU rules. 3) The chance you have to get a scholarship here is hundred times bigger than in ANY UK University. Cost of life is better and in Frankfurt you can survive without German easily. 4) The connections of the ILF with the market in Frankfurt can be equal, but not worse than ANY Law School in the whole world. In our group of 40, more than 35 got already an internship with half time gone. And you can bet: in top law firms and banks. 5) Here, there will be not only lawyers talking about Finance, but also business guys talking about law. The interactions and interdisciplinary of the course makes it worthier. That's it! Think about… Bye Sat, 16 Feb 2008 18:55:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40424 @Rafael Lima & Mr. Lawyer, First of all, thanks for providing useful info about ILF. I have also received offer letter from ILF with a scholarship of Euro 5000. I am also admitted to Georgetown and awaiting for Berkeley & Harvard. But I am in dilemma what to do.... I am a law graduate from India, at present working in Middle East in an Int'l IP Firm. I do not have much exp in Finance but have finance background in first degree course. I do not know German. In your opinion what will be the chances of getting job after completing LL.M. from ILF and what will be a better option between Georgetown and ILF in long term career perspective. Regards Sun, 17 Feb 2008 18:58:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40455 Hey Jaideep, You put me in a very delicate situation now. As a matter of advice and suggestion, you must be aware that nobody can really decide your life for you. And if advices were always good, we would not merely give them, but sell it for a reasonable price! Unfortunately, I must admit that today a degree in Georgetown will look better in your CV than one got in the ILF. It is a fact that Georgetown is widely known not only in the US, but in India, Europe and everywhere else. The ILF for its turn, has a more strong value in the European environment. However, It is also a fact that your CV can make it easier for you to get a first job, but it is not enough to keep you in there. You must be really good to have your space nowadays, specially in Finance!! It this sense, I can guarantee you that in the ILF you will REALLY learn finance. I dunno how things are in Georgetown, how into Finance they are, and if they really provide you a special and unique time studying. To be honest, I am a bit skeptical with the NAMES of Universities only. Not always the quality reflects the name acquired. But it is a good indicator though... I would reaserch quality of staff and program. And than compare... Another fact that you must keep in mind is the life in the US nowadays. For outsiders, it has become really a problem. Personally, I don't like been considered a problem that must be tolerated for a while. If i have to live in a place out of my country, I would prefer to go for one where I fell welcome, where my rights and homeland are respected. In this sense, I have nothing to say about Germany. Specially the people from Hessen, the state of Frankfurt. They are really nice with us, public authorities act with respect and you fell welcome. On the other hand, I had a "not very good" experience in the US learning english... Also, in Germany you can attend internships and be paid for that. In the ILF you WILL realize one as a mandatory requirement. It is a great chance to make contacts and find a job after graduation. I had three offers, accepted two, and hopefully will be employed after here. But, it is just my point of view. I had 5 offers to select before comming, all here in Europe: UCL, QMUL, Durham, ILF and Catolica. I am proud of my choice... That's it mate. Think, think, and when you have sure, think a bit more. It is a decision for life. Dont put money before other more important things... you have your entire life to work and make it!! Bye Mr. Lawyer. Mon, 18 Feb 2008 09:17:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40478 Thanx a lot..... That,s true, it is me who is going to decide. I just asked for your advise and you advised me in a fair way.... One more thing, is there any other scholarships for ILF LL.M. students.... Still I have to pay Euro 10,000 for remaining fee... Thanks again and Best regards Mon, 18 Feb 2008 13:59:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40491 Hey mate, I just said that things regarding advices and decisions coze here in this website very often we see people saying "help me to decide". And they just got the votes and go for the most selected one... it cannot be like that. But, I am sorry anyway... Regarding your last querry, I know that they have a huge list of sponsors and a good contact with the DAAD. This is a germany public board that provides scholarships for overseas students. Get in contact with the admission office of the ILF and ask them if you can combine scholarships (i dunno if it is possible) and, if yes, how to make contact with the DAAD. Thats it!! I wish u all luck in your decision and your seek for the scholarship. But 5.000 Euros is quite a lot, hein... If you decide for the ILF, we will see each other in some of the Alumni events for sure. Tschuss Mr. L Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:05:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40646 Hi all, I wanted to ask you how much the LL.M. could be effective in terms of career enhancement/career change and in general continuous and updated learning for a 36 years old lawyer who has practised in 5 European countries up to now. As far as you are aware, has ever anybody of my age attended the LL.M.? Thanks for your replies. Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:15:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40707 Dear Vale, I think that education is never enough!! I also think that an LL.M is much more suitable for somebody with a substancial practical experience, than for someone who just want to postpone its entrance to the wild environment of Law Firms, Banks and Audit Companies. I can guarantee you that the likelihood to find over 40 on LL.Ms in Europe in not very high. However, it happens. I am in contact with a former student of the ILF that have more or less your maturity and experience. Probably your age. If he agrees, I will be happy to forward his email to you. Another important factor that you might consider is that you can share your experience. In such a program, the idea is not only gain knowledge but also share experience, approaches to different problems. I am quite sure that the whole group would gain with your presence. Finally, some LL.Ms, as it is the case of the ILF, accept people with different backgrounds to discuss tha same topic: FINANCE. So, you may have a great experience in the Law side, but you might have none in accounting, taxation of financial funds (looking from the business perspective), just to name few. Thats my opinion. I wish I had money and opportunities to recycle myself one year every 6 or 7 of work, attending a masters. Cheers! Thu, 21 Feb 2008 14:18:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40718 @Mr. Lawyer..... Thank you very much.... Hope will join ILF and very much pleased to meet you.... but will decide next month.... If I have more queries in this regard, will bother you.... Regards Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:55:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40795 Dear Vale, I think that education is never enough!! I also think that an LL.M is much more suitable for somebody with a substancial practical experience, than for someone who just want to postpone its entrance to the wild environment of Law Firms, Banks and Audit Companies. I can guarantee you that the likelihood to find over 40 on LL.Ms in Europe in not very high. However, it happens. I am in contact with a former student of the ILF that have more or less your maturity and experience. Probably your age. If he agrees, I will be happy to forward his email to you. Another important factor that you might consider is that you can share your experience. In such a program, the idea is not only gain knowledge but also share experience, approaches to different problems. I am quite sure that the whole group would gain with your presence. Finally, some LL.Ms, as it is the case of the ILF, accept people with different backgrounds to discuss tha same topic: FINANCE. So, you may have a great experience in the Law side, but you might have none in accounting, taxation of financial funds (looking from the business perspective), just to name few. Thats my opinion. I wish I had money and opportunities to recycle myself one year every 6 or 7 of work, attending a masters. Cheers! Hi, well, thanks a lot for your tips and your "moral" support and yes, please, if that former student agrees, just forward to him my message. Thanks again. Sat, 23 Feb 2008 11:24:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40901 Hey Vale, Are you from South America? At least we have a great "Vale" Family down there. If you wanna more information about the program, I am a current student. Always a pleasure to talk about the ILF. See ya! Rafael Mon, 25 Feb 2008 08:23:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#40988 Bretheren, Am from the Geveva of Africa, Tanzania. I am saddened i have not been admited to ILF, i was reduced to tears. No apparent reasons were given than a "a dissapointing news e-mail". For sure, ILF has rocked my world, unfortunately, i have to accept their painful decision. Well, i would like to ask you guys, if you happen to know the altenative to ILF (Finance, tax or corporate law) with such similar scholarship opportunities. Please let me know. LLM is my priority for now. The Ringoboy. Wed, 27 Feb 2008 02:03:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#41160 Ringoboy, Sorry about the unfortunate ILF news...have you considered Bucerius/WHU in Hamburg or Erasmus in Rotterdam? The Bucerius/WHU program is structured like the ILF in that it consists of a two-month internship, like ILF, and also has a curriculum including half law and the other half consisting of business/management/economics. Check their websites or feel for free to contact me with any questions. Best regards, Lamine Wed, 27 Feb 2008 10:03:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#41176 Hey Boy, Dont be that sad! Life is like that sometimes, we that come from 3rd world should be used to these situations. Life is better when we get things in a harder way. I learn to give the right valued to them. As a suggestion, I would say to you apply again next year. Maybe they had already selected the 40s of the year. I dunno... You may find other places to apply as well. Have a look in Leiden and Tilburg in Holland. They have advanced programs, more in international business than finance, but it is a good start though. Cheers, ML Mon, 03 Mar 2008 17:58:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#41585 Tue, 04 Mar 2008 11:18:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#41647 Mate, Be sure that you will have a chance. It would be much better if you had at least the first exam in Germany or other BAR Exam in a foreign country. But, since your professors will be the partners of firms like Norton and Rose, Freshfields, Baker and Mckenzie, Linklaters, to name few... You will have a unique opportunity to show your value and run after you inscription in their BAR in future. You will be in your country mate, come on! I am Brazilian and am working for in Financial Services at PwC now. Tschuss Rafael Tue, 11 Mar 2008 14:00:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42242 Hi everyone:) I write for a first time in such a forum, so please excuse me if I make mistakes with the posts:) I have been just accepted to the ILF program and I am very glad because of that fact but I still have some additional questions and I will highly appreciate if someone can help with his/her own experiance. I have been granted with 5000 euro by the ILF but there still remains the question about living expences. I tried to contact with a number of german foundations that provides scholarships but the answer again and again is the same: " You don't know German language so we can't help you". So if somebody has (or had) the same case like mine and he/she can provide me contact details of any organization or at least a little bit more detailed information about the requerements for scholarship I will be very graceful ! About the ILF....as i can see here I have made a good choice applying for that program;). I hope that the real job opportunities are really as good as they are pointed out by the guys here;). It is really great to have "inside" information about the program and about the chances that it can give! Thnx to all! Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:21:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42327 Alexia, first off, congratulations on getting accepted. I was wondering if you'd be willing to share some info you may have about the program. Do you know by any chance if people are able to get jobs in Germany after graduation? Also, are they still accepting applications at this point? Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:24:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42358 They provided you with Internships in the leading firms, Banks and Financial Institutions. I could personally talk with a former brazilian student that works for Baker and Mckenzie, an American student that was hired by Allen and Overy, two Germans that got places in the RBS and one that went to ECB. Also, an Indian is working for PWC. But, you must be aware that Jobs after your LL.M will rely on mainly three factors (all of them not related with the ILF, or any other University): 1) Market situation in Finance (nowadays it is not very positive, there is much more activity in corporate, than finance itself); 2) How you perform in your Internship. If you suit on the team, your level of English and German, enthusiasm and capacity to help; 3) Imigration Status/Bar or other board admission. That´s my opinion. P.S.: Regarding the application period, the ILF and QMUL are the only top Institutions that do not impose any restriction on dates. However, you must be aware that as soon as you apply, bigger are your chances. Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:20:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42365 Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:34:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42373 PP65468, I will be glad if I could help you with some kind of information regarding the Programme but unfortunately I can share only my own experience acording the acceptance. As I know they don't have deadline for applications but when I was at the beggining of my applying the admission menager of the programme told me that they usually were full till March. But of course this is not 100% sure:) So... good luck:)! Wed, 12 Mar 2008 21:39:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42429 Hi, Alexia, congrats first! And I want to learn when you sent your application documents? How long did it take to get the admission offer? Thanx in advance... Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:36:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42532 thnx! well, I sent the documents in the middle of January and I recieved an offer after 2 or 3 weeks. Fri, 14 Mar 2008 11:11:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42640 Hey, I was reading the posts here and want to congratulate the ones that already got an offer. That´s great! I hope you like and enjoy it as much as I am enjoying. As an advice, If i were you I would start looking for accomodation in Frankfurt. There are many WGs around, some related to churches that are really cheap and really good. Much better that the Universitiy ones. Also, in the private market you may find nice places to live, but the chances improve dramatically if you start looking soon. Thats all... All the best, Rafael Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:14:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42643 Guys, I would not want to disappoint you, but do not have your hopes really high on getting a job that easily. The timing is not at all good with the current credit crunch and everything. Law firms in London are letting people go and investment banking activities have reached a 5-year low. One useful piece of advice to those considering to start looking for a job in frankfurt after graduation : start practicing your german language skills. Non-german speaking hires are the exception and not the rule in frankfurt. Nonetheless, the LLM courses are very interesting and the program reputation is building up very fast. To those of you who were admitted, congratulations, to those of you who are still considering to apply, I think that the intake is full for the next year...so , bad luck.... PS Alexia, where are you from??? Fri, 14 Mar 2008 13:25:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42647 Sulpikius, I am from Bulgaria. Fri, 14 Mar 2008 18:41:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42693 Sulpikius, thank for the warning. It's more helpful to get realistic advice I think. You seem to know a bit about the German market. I am a native German speaker but don't have a German law degree (I'm getting an American degree and would hopefully be qualified in NY by the time I would start the program). What would you think are the chances for German speakers without a German law degree? Thanks in advance. Sun, 16 Mar 2008 08:40:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42796 While getting the NY Bar admission in the field of finance, would seem that you simply rule the world and can work everywhere in the world, in Germany, if you don't have passed the second State Exams to become fully qualified, you will simply end up being paid half of what the qualified German lawyers are getting. On the other hand, in your case, I don't know what's the deal with the US Law firms that are based in Germany, maybe their primary criterion is the US and not the german qualification. If I were you, I would not worry about getting a job in Frankfurt (German native+NY Bar), that's definite, I would only be concerned with the terms of employment. Anyway, I hope I was of a little help to you. PS The purpose of this discussion blog is to help one another make informed decisions. If you read only the pros but no the cons, then you simply end up misinformed...... Sun, 16 Mar 2008 17:04:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42828 Hello Everybody, You must be aware that Sulpikius (I know you mate...hehe) is pointing out something really important: there is a differentiation in terms of salaries for German, American and Rest of the World in the Frankfurt Market. However, it is still very attractive comparing with the reality of some other countries. A reasonable expectation here would be something around 50 - 60 thousand Euros a year (be aware that half of this will go to the German Government in form of Income Tax). If you are good the sky is the limit, though. That's all from my side. Rafael Sun, 16 Mar 2008 19:50:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42842 Thanks for the info guys. Do you know by any chance if there is any way for foreign lawyers to re-qualify in Germany? Just wondering... Mon, 17 Mar 2008 14:53:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42913 Hey everybody! It looks like I am the only woman in this men's world here :) So please, guys, I need help... :) I would like to ask for opinion about the importance of the german language skills in Frankfurt. Before a couple of days Sulpikius wrote that to get a job in Frankfurt without good german language skills is an exeption. And I am a bit concerned because for me especially german is disaster... So, Rafael Lima (it seems to me that you are one of the best imformed persons here) or somebody else who has any opinion or experiance concerning that issue ... I will be graceful if you could share it. Thnx in advance! Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:59:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42922 Alexia, I don't know whether your background is legal or financial, but if you want to work in the banking sector, I would say it is of critical importance to be able to speak german. Some law firms do hire foreign non-german speaking foreign associates, but that is not definitely the rule... Both me and Rafael (are you going to Boston next year mate??? Congrats!!!) are not renowned for our german language skills, so you can count on our comments!!! Anyway, if you are seriously planning on staying in Germany afterwards, you have sufficient time to improve your language skills, both prior to, and after coming to Frankfurt. PS Which part of Bulgaria do you come from?? We are your southern neighbors.... Mon, 17 Mar 2008 20:43:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#42990 Sulpikius, first, thnx for your reply. I have Master degree in Law so there is a piece of hope for me :):) But I completely understand that I have to learn german language if I want to stay or work in Germany... I can only hope that I will be able to do this. As I understand you are from Greece, right? I am from Dupnitsa - this is a town near Blagoevgrad (maybe you know it, it is near to Bulgaria - Greece boundary and there are a lot of Greek people) but I live and work in the capital - Sofia. Tue, 18 Mar 2008 01:17:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#43022 Congratulations to all of u admitted to ILF -for those not admitted: don't be that depressed..u can always find an alternative-! Alexia, since u were the only woman in this company, I decided to join u for some support. Well, I just wanted to tell u that u shouldn't worry that much about your German skills..There are many American law firms in Frankfurt that are not interested at all for German. I am writing based on my personal experience. I will do my internship in an American law firm and although I speak German, they told me that there will be no need of using it! Since somebody is not a qualified German lawyer, he will usually work in the international department of the law firm, where only English is used!! If u want to work in a law firm, you'd better look for the american-based ones and just try to have some basic knowledge of German! But since u are going to stay in Frankfurt, try to take advantage of it and learn some German!Don't forget that it is an additional skill in your CV! I hope I was also useful for the friend that is a NY lawyer and speaks German! I think things will be quite easy for u in an American law firm. That is all from my side!! Tue, 18 Mar 2008 04:28:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#43030 Thanks Melkapel, that was very helpful and quite encouraging. Congratulations on getting a great internship! Tue, 18 Mar 2008 09:36:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#43053 An internship and a job placement are two completely different things. Everybody gets a 2-month internship, as it is a core component of the LLM program, but that does not translate into a job placement (we are not talking about paralegal jobs). I don't know what the deal is with the US firms, but given their relatively small size here in Frankfurt, I would guess that it is difficult to get a placement as a foreign associate, unless you have at least a US- university degree. Anyway, with regard to that, Alexia you are very lucky, because there is a Bulgarian LLM student that is currently doing an internship with a US law firm here in Frankfurt. I can give you his email, and you can contact him to get a pretty good insight in what is happening there, eg, if the have employed foreign associates, what is their status, what is their educational background etc. PS. ALexia, I've been to both cities, and also to Bansko a couple of times for skiing... Tue, 18 Mar 2008 09:54:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#43055 Thank you very much, Melkapel, for your support :). It is a great relief to hear that it is possible to be hired by a Law firm in Frankfurt without good german language skills! By the way I think that this is quite normal - still Frankfurt is something like European financial capital! I have one more request - could you tell something more about the ILF, the programme, something based on your experiance there... Maybe I am a bit curious but I still can not believe that I am going to study there and I want to know more and more about it:) Thnx in advance! sulpikius , I have just seen that you have replied too;) I will be sooooooo graceful if you could give me the e-mail of that bulgarian student - of course if he don't mind! And I am happy to hear that you have been in Bulgaria - hope you enjoyed your time here :) By the way I am planning to visit Greece soon :) Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:24:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#43060 Hey Guys, I would say that Melkapel - I also know you... :?) - is correct! I am working for Price Waterhouse and Coopers and English is the language of my team. During my internship, I had already got an offer for an extension on my period here with some additional financial support. So, we are not talking about paralegal job, or anything else. And I have just started learning their language. Even though we are in Germany, my team is mostly international. We have people from all continents working together here. Since we have to take care of Investment Funds from all over the world, it helps a lot. Therefore, I must say that it is not guaranteed the opportunity to be hired after your LL.M. Yet, there are some chances. German skills could be required in someplace, but not in all of them. And I am quite sure of it! My advice for you all is to think firstly in the gain on knowledge and experiences you will have after your degree and not only for the money (work) you will be able to get. In the worse scenario, you will be back to your country with a worth CV, being able to get the best jobs available. You must admit, it is not bad, though. That’s all!! P.S: Sulpikius... I am preparing myself for Boston! Still uncertain, but the likelihood for that is quite high. Thanks for the compliments. As a final topic, you must admit that even in the law firm you work for (Really German) one of our colleagues was hired, and she did not speak fluent German. P.S. 2: By the way, I would like to tell everybody that the application period for the ILF is still opened. Even though, the Institute was totally flooded by applications this year (and that’s absolutely great), I got an inside information that the ILF Admission Team haven’t decided about the whole intake yet. So, if somebody is still thinking of applying for it and is strong enough to beat the ones already there, I would say to do it ASAP! Tue, 18 Mar 2008 13:27:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#43068 Sulpikius, just wanted to mention that there are people from previous years that already work in law firms or the law departments of big banks without being German qualified lawyers or having a US degree!! This doesn't mean that ILF is the passport for the market, but if sb wants to stay in Frankfurt and tries, he can find a good job. Don't forget that Bulgaria recently entered the EU and there is investment activity going on there!! Alexia, u seem to me too excited for the program!!That is really good!! When we want sth that much, then we take the best advantage of the opportunities it offers. Well, I would just like to tell u that the ILF programm is quite rigorous , having too much reading to do before class, but I think it offers u a great chance to broaden your law and finance horizons. The first semester has some business courses that give u fundamental knowledge in this field, so that u go to the second semester ready for some specialization -even for lawyers- in the business field . As far as the law courses are concerned, some of them I attended are quite tough, such as Corporate Finance and Comparative Company law, but to be honest I think they are useful. Just to mention that Comparative Company Law includes the German jurisdiction as well, so u can gain some knowledge, since u are interested in staying here. In addition, many extra-curricular activities, some guest lectures for example on current issues take place almost every week, and I would highly recommend to attend them, The problem is that u have so many things to prepare for the next day, that u usually decide not to do so! I would like to say that the ILF offers you a great range of opportunities, but it is totally up to u how much u benefit from them!!! Alexia-and anybody else-, if u want additional information, just ask me precisely. You can send me a personal e-mail in any case!!! P.S. I am also a neighbor. Greek girl!! Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:26:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#43207 Melkapel, thnx for the information. I find it really useful. Sorry that I am asking like an idiot about stupid things but could you (or anybody else here) explain me the structure of the education process in ILF - I mean how many subjects you have to cover during the semester and what is the exams organization. It seems to me (regarding to the things I read) that the system there is pretty different than that one used in the bulgarian's universities :) p.s. Yes, Melkapel, I am quite excited about the fact that I am going to take part in that program and I really want to do my best there. Happy to hear that you are neighbor too ;) Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:30:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44479 I've just received an email confirming my admittance to the program, ILF with 10,000 Euro awarad toward tuition fee. But it is conditional on : TOEFL iBT 100 and graduation from my current degree (MA Int'l commercial law) with GPA 17/20 (i.e. A) I do have received offers both from UCL and KCL as well! Very difficult to decide ... any one could kindly give advice Mon, 31 Mar 2008 20:37:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44489 Congrats Alexia and Ehxxan. I, too, received my admission offer today (I had contacted them last week, and they said the admissions committee had met last week, so I would hear Monday -- so I imagine several people got news today). I, too, am now faced with a big decision. Leaving my current job and investing in school is a very big decision (I am in the US, and the US$ is not worth very much now!). ILF has been my first choice in my mind, but I have also been admitted to the MLB program from Bucerius/WHU and to the European Business Law program at Leiden. They are all a little different, and all good, so it is a difficult decision. If any of you have considered these programs in comparison to ILF, and could share your thoughts, I would appreciate it. I'm leaning heavily toward going to ILF, though, so I'd also like to start getting to know my possible future classmates! - Janet Mon, 31 Mar 2008 23:17:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44499 Hi everybody, I also got the admission offer today as Ehxxan and jrickie, congratulations friends.. I have similar concerns with jrickie, EURO has increased % 15 against our currency (Turkish Lira) for the last 2 months! jrickie, the choice issue: when I started searching llm degrees here, one of the first programmes I saw was LLM Finance and I loved it. Then I went on searching for a month but none of the programmes, including those in the UK, changed my mind. LLM Finance is really unique because of the internship and the courses! Haluk Lawyer/Istanbul-Turkey Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:59:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44506 I've just received an email confirming my admittance to the program, ILF with 10,000 Euro awarad toward tuition fee. But it is conditional on : TOEFL iBT 100 and graduation from my current degree (MA Int'l commercial law) with GPA 17/20 (i.e. A) I do have received offers both from UCL and KCL as well! Very difficult to decide ... any one could kindly give advice I won't try to give you a solid piece of advice, as the choice of an LLM is highly subjective and dependant on a variety of criteria. I will just speak for myself and say that the only reason that I chose the ILF was because I could not get the 7.5 in IELTS that the KCL wanted, as one of the terms of it's conditional offer. If I could have satisfied this condition I would have not given it any second thought. I also happen to know one of the current ILF students, and one of the best students also in this class, that he is going next year to King's to do a second LLM. The reason??? He just wants to spend a year studying in one of the best European and global universities.... The ILF is good, but it is rather new, it runs since 2002 and it does not compare to the global reputation that UCL and KCL have. Just check out the global llm rankings indices. And of course, if you want to be serious in financing, London is second to none, at least in Europe , everybody knows that. Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:21:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44581 Thats absolutely not what I had heard so far! But, as a matter of advice... I would rather prefer my sources that confirm that the ILF is waaaaaaaaaay better than any University of London Colleges (Boooooooooooring programs). However, It is just an opinion! Compare everything... Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:17:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44593 Hello All, I would like to give my own opinion regarding the several issues being addressed here regarding the ILF and other good LL.M programs in Europe. First of all, I must admit that am a current student, therefore, could be accused of partiality or any other not very kind adjective. Also, my intention here is not to create any polemic, just to provide those interested persons with reliable information. Before coming last year to the ILF, I had myself 5 different LL.M courses to attend, namely Queen Mary, Durham, UCL, Católica and the ILF, being unconditionally accepted by all of them. I faced, thus, the same doubts and lost a bit of my hair and weight, as you are probably doing now, trying to solve the dilemma in which I had put myself. Well, my decision is now clear for everybody: I came to the ILF! Several reasons supported my decision: (i) I had a generous scholarship; (ii) I had personally visited the institute before classes and were pleased with the infrastructure and organization. Also the level of English from the Librarian to the Director was absolutely fine (much better than mine! And I had an IELTS 7.5); (iii) the program could not be compared to any other: The mix of business and law, the possibility to attend more courses, a more comprehensive approach to finance itself and not a parallel topic charmed me considerably; (iv) The quality of the professors: A mix of leading practitioners and successful academics from the Goethe Business School and the Frankfurt Law School really give it a plus; (v) the guaranteed internship in the Frankfurt market, what no other school around does (what already gave me a job, in the middle of the program). Apart from that, there are many other reasons for applying to it, and accepting your offer, now: (i) great exchange programs with Columbia, Amsterdam and Aarhus Business School in Denmark, giving to many students an opportunity to extend its studies; (ii) the new House of Finance (new ILF facilities) will be nothing but the leading place for Finance in Europe. It is just incredible to see the project, staff and the quality of the place; (iii) as currents students we are constantly providing the direction of the institute with advices, feedback and suggestion to improve it even more. I can bet that you will be proud to be part of this team if you come! I will be around anyway and you will be able to talk to me and say if I was right or wrong. By the way, Frankfurt is a great city and will certainly compete with London and Paris really soon as the place for finance in Europe. It is just an advice, though! Everybody must be mature enough to assume and support its decisions. Never forget that nobody will make your studies perfect for you. It is a matter of dedication, patience, hard working, whichever LL.M you decide to attend. The ILF is just special, being new, in Frankfurt, and whatever else... Hope to see you guys around! Rafael Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:21:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44637 wow, Rafael... that was wonderful post! I hope that we all after some time will be as enthusiastic about the programme and ILF itself as you are! It seems that it really worth! Good luck to all in taking decisions - hope you will make the best one for yourselves!:) Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:55:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44645 Hey all, I would like to say that, although I had really high chances of getting admitted to top UK universities, I didn't even apply for them, because -first of all I believe that the LLM in finance at ILF has a unique structure offering real specialization in finance without setting aside law (it is a systematic approach of law and finance), which means that it is preferable to any other LLM (they only concentrate on legal aspects) and to an MBA for lawyers at least. I think that at least in Europe it is the only one. -secondly, the programme includes a variety of courses -you should take the exam in 5 per semester-, but you can attend more or all courses (around 15 offered each semester) and benefit the most of their content and the Professors or Doctors giving the lectures. As far as I know this is not the case in other LLMs where the the program is predetermined by the faculty and you usually attend four courses throughout the whole year. -thirdly, the programme has quite strict admission requirements. The pool of students this year comes all around the world and most of them have ranked first- or among the top students) at their graduations, some have already another master, some used to work in well- known law firms and banks. -and many other reasons, such as the internship, the new extra- modern facilities at the new campus of finance, the opportunity to learn a new language while staying in Frankfurt, - etc. London is for sure the financial center of Europe, but Frankfurt is doing really well in following. London, Paris, Frankfurt are all some kind of financial centers-larger or smaller-.In addition, at ILF you acquire knowledge that can give you the opportunity to get a really good job in any country. Even if Frankfurt is not the biggest financial center, ILF provides u with knowledge that gives u good access to any financial center. So, that is my opinion ..my choice was made after advice from my professors and some well-known practitioners in my country. And don't forget that ILF exists since five years and it is for sure the top LLM in Germany and gaining reputation all around the world. I think it makes the difference in the LLM market and its future can be foreseen. PS. Alexia, as far as the structure is concerned, each semester you have to take the exam in 5 courses and the exams form depends on the professor-it can be essay questions, some multiple choice-! Don't be that anxious..you will find everything concerning specifically the courses in class...even if your system is different, you will manage..the key word is hard-working. Sat, 05 Apr 2008 19:08:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#44928 hallo.my name is stavros and i work in greece for a consultng firm....i have made an application for ILF and i have received a pre-acceptance letter from DAAD for a scholarship..that is the reason why i decided to try for the LLM,,,my only question is how easy is for someone with business background to acieve an LLM and to find a job in Frankfurt (surely not as a lawyer but as a financial consultant or an auditor)...Also do you know after how much time they send you the results for the application (i wait from the last week of March)..... thank you Mon, 07 Apr 2008 18:20:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45026 Just got in off of the waitlist !! ... applied back in October : ) I guess there might still be hope for others on the waitlist, unless I was the last admittee : ) Tue, 08 Apr 2008 16:56:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45095 Congrats!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tue, 08 Apr 2008 17:17:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45096 Thanks, Mr. Lawyer! I'm actually torn between the ILF LLM and the MLB at Bucerius ... are you familiar with the program, and if so, any insight on why you would choose ILF LLM or the MLB. One concern for me is that while Bucerius is the #1 ranked law school in Germany by sources such as Karriere and Der Spiegel, no one in the world knows what an MLB is. Comments from ALL are welcome! Tue, 08 Apr 2008 19:00:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45103 Don't give to much importance for the title of your degree, but the quality of it. I would pick up the ILF instead of Bucerius for basic 3 reasons: 1) Frankfurt is the German Centre for Finance (not comparable to Hamburg); 2) You have a really international group, stronger lectures and more exclusive facilities; 3) The Internship program guarantees you a placement in the Frankfurt Market. Also, the Goethe Business School (same university) is the best in Germany for Finance. The Law School is so well ranked too. The ILF would be a bit of both with extra (top) professional lectures. Finally, I never listen complains about the quality of the ILF, but regarding the MLB, I had listened some. Think about... Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:47:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45203 Hi All, Its gud hear the positive response from ppl who have been and expereinced ILF. I knw the there can be no job guarantee even after finishing your course from the bestest of the Univ, but what are the chances of the ILF degree being recognised or treated at the same footing as like a degree from UK or US?? Further places like UK and US do offer part time jobs to students to at least fund thier living expenses. I am not too sure abt the situation in Germany. Would be great to have the thoughts of all of you all on these issues. Cheers, Indlaw Hello Everybody It is really a nice idea to join Institute for law and finance. Specially since I am a student and know a lot about the program, I strongly recommend to everybody who is interested having LLM. I would prefer not to talk much about it since the program by itself is self explanatory. May be you can get similar program elsewhere in the world. But I can 100% guarantee you there is no program that exactly resembles ILF.Some of the reasons behind this fact is -almost 95% of lecturers are practitioners -generous scholarship award -internships in different big law firms, banks, accounting firms which helps to establish good career contact -accepts both Law and Economics/Business students irrespective of their working experience and any other background -small student body... These are not the only benefits that you might get here. Still there are unmentioned hidden benefits of ILF. Regards, Fasil Mekonnen Alemu (Nationality Ethiopian) Thu, 10 Apr 2008 15:14:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45257 As an student in Germany, you may work part-time. In the US it won´t be possible at all. If you take the full-time LL.M program, I think you won´t find time for that, though. Regarding the importance and fame of the Institute, I may say that they are really strong in Germany already. The likelihood for getting more and more recognized abroad is really high. Specially now with the House of Finance. However, the admission is getting really really (really!!!) selective and tough. I would apply if you have a strong background in comparison with your peers. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:11:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45275 While I was surfing on the website of ILF, I realized that in the previous years other than 2007-2008, the size of the classes is about 30 students each year... What is the reason for this? Is this because of the tough selection procedure or the institute has just started to gain popularity? Also for law graduates, please current student mates, tell us which finance lectures do not need fundamental finance or mathematics knowledge? I am afraid not to be able to deepen in financial law while struggling with financial mathematics or so. What do you recommend? Thanx in advance... Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:28:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/37248/last#45278 The reason for that is simple: The annual intake is no more than 40! The structure of the Institute up to this year could/would not sustain more than 40 students without prejudices for the quality of the program. The idea is to have great lectures for a small pool of students, enhancing contacts and the learning process. On ILF´s new house, the House of Finance, the intake may be bigger, but I don´t know it precisely. Regarding your intention to avoid maths, I would say: It is more or less impossible. Still, Monetary Policy and Financial Regulation and Principles of Economics won´t be that hard on this regard. Avoid Fundamentals of Finance and Accounting, for sure!! On the second semester the thing become a bit more complicated, but on Financial Markets and Institutions and in Risk Management you may find yourself in a safe position.